Blatter declares the potential of World Cup

The President of FIFA, Sepp Blatter, has defiantly defended the preparations for this summer's World Cup and stated that it will be the best incarnation in the tournament's vast history.

Speaking with fifa.com, Blatter insisted on focussing on the positives for 2014 and recalled Italy 90, when stadia weren't ready until weeks before the World Cup started but ultimately success was its legacy.

"Despite all the criticism, it will be the best ever World Cup.", said the 77 year-old.

"The rhythm of the football is different the competition is different.. I'm sure these modern stadia will respond to the expectations of the spectators and the players."

In the lead-up to this summer's showpiece tournament, several tragic events have threatened to derail its organisation, from public violent protests to the deaths of three people; two in Sao Paulo and one in Manaus.